American pit bull terrier

noun

: any of a breed of muscular, agile dogs that have a short, smooth coat, were developed to combine the traits of terriers and bulldogs, have extremely powerful jaws and great strength and tenacity, and that were originally bred for dog fighting

called also pit bull terrier

Word History

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

American pit bull terrier

noun

: any of a breed of medium-sized dogs with a stocky build, powerful jaws, and great strength